One of the goals of the Southwest Organization for Sustainability, better known as SOS, is “to communicate with and educate the public and elected officials about choices that affect sustainability.”

As we approach election day SOS is fulfilling this goal by hosting a candidate’s forum. The event will take place Oct. 20 at 6:30 pm at the Pagosa Springs Community Center.

Those who attend will get an opportunity to hear what the county commissioner candidates have to say regarding sustainable issues. This moderated forum will pose pre-selected questions, and also offer audience members a chance to ask questions as well.

SOS’s mission is to promote the concept of sustainability into all the workings of Archuleta County.

A widely accepted definition of “sustainability” is to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, and this is the cornerstone of the work SOS does. The farmer’s market, one of SOS’s projects, was not only a success bringing locally grown produce and products to the downtown area, but also helped support local resident growers. Sustainability is not only about caring for the physical world, but also about helping create an environment that supports local economies. By hosting this forum SOS members hope to provide an avenue for the community to find out what the candidates think about promoting the local economy.

The forum will conclude with the annual SOS member appreciation, a drawing and refreshments.